Arkansas is not necessarily famous for game design or gaming in general. Even so, it did produce some notable names in the industry. For instance, Dona Bailey, who created the masterpiece Centipede, was from the state. Another personality from Arkansas is Riley Unzelman, who made a living as a professional video gamer. With that said, the state, despite not being a dedicated place for game design, does offer solid opportunities for students interested in the field. In detail, there are notable game design schools that provide specialized degrees and programs to meet the local demand in gaming careers.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Arkansas, we reviewed publicly available information and program offerings and relied on EduRank to select the best options in the state. Our focus was on identifying schools that provide the strongest preparation for professional game design careers. This approach ensures a consistent evaluation while prioritizing choices that equip students with knowledge and practical skills for the evolving gaming industry.
How to Use Our Criteria
While our list is based on statistics and facts, we acknowledge that it is not absolute and is open to interpretation. We also recognize that each student has varying needs regarding program focus, campus culture, cost, lifestyle, and the like. With that said, our rankings are solely intended to provide guidance and highlight programs that can help students land a career in game design.
Five Game Design Schools in Arkansas (2026)
University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas is home to the Tesseract Center for Immersive Environments and Game Design, which is a game development and visualization studio. Specifically, students can take core game design classes that teach them programming, art, and design fundamentals. Plus, they have the option to continue in an expanding curriculum that introduces more advanced game design topics. On top of that, students will experience making actual games, which is helpful in building a robust portfolio to gain an edge in landing jobs.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 380 of 14,131
- US ranking: 128 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $7,000 per year for in-state students to over $28,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University caters to students with multiple commitments through its Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Tech and Game Design Online. This dedicated program allows aspiring game designers to learn the basics of game development, generate 2D and 3D visuals, and design a game. Likewise, the course helps students establish in-demand skills that will eventually make them qualified for jobs, such as an animator, illustrator, multimedia designer, and video game designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1659 of 14,131
- US ranking: 401 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $6,000 per year for in-state students to over $13,000 per year for out-of-state students.
John Brown University
John Brown University offers a BS Major in Game Design degree that equips students with both creative and technical skills. In particular, the curriculum covers coding, game theory, graphic design, and 3D modeling. Moreover, the school promises students that graduating with this degree can assure them a career in game design, artistic directing, and UI design.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1822 of 14,131
- US ranking: 446 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $14,000 per year for in-state students to over $29,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Arkansas Tech University
Arkansas Tech University has a BFA in Game and Interactive Media Design offering for learners interested in penetrating the gaming industry. Additionally, the program will introduce students to Digital 3D Foundations and Computer Programming. After that, the curriculum will focus on advanced game design, animation, and 3D modeling. Students are also required to complete the Senior Game Project and Professional Portfolio, which would also be beneficial on their end. Accordingly, graduates will be qualified for animation, programming, and UX/UI positions.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 3386 of 14,131
- US ranking: 883 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $5,000 per year for in-state students to over $11,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Southern Arkansas University
Southern Arkansas University also has programs related to game design. In fact, it is the first university in the state to have Computer Game and Animation Programs. As of now, it provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game, Animation, and Simulation, which is a specialized degree that instills learners with technical and theoretical skills. In addition, part of the curriculum involves teaching students 3D animation, and game environment production and management. Completing the program guarantees that students are capable of a variety of jobs associated with the field, like game art, game programming, and game development.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 4485 of 14,1311
- US ranking: 1157 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $5,000 per year for in-state students to over $12,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Why Study Game Design in Arkansas?
Arkansas has a decent range of pathways into the field. From extensive bachelor’s degrees to specialized programs, each option grants students unique opportunities and resources. Plus, learners in Arkansas can supplement their academic work with internships or projects to further strengthen their portfolio and enrich their game design experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Arkansas have game design schools?
A: Yes. You can find a couple of universities where you can apply for game design programs or a dedicated degree.
Q: What is the ideal game design program in Arkansas?
A: You can start your search process with the Computer Game and Animation Programs at Southern Arkansas University.
Q: Can I take online game design courses in Arkansas?
A: Of course! Arkansas State University offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Tech and Game Design Online that is designed to deliver flexibility for students with tight schedules.
